er husband, and that on that account would doubtless strive
to make him happy. It was the fact of their marriage that distressed
her; and, unlike me, she did not think of pitying Mr. Spence because of
any flaws in the disposition of his wife. I tried therefore to dismiss
the matter from the conversation as soon as possible; and before the end
of the evening her mood was so far mollified that she introduced the
subject of the Honorable Ernest's arrival.

"Yes, Virginia," she said, "it is forty-one years ago that I made the
ocean passage with that young man's father, and we have corresponded
ever since. That is what comes of being systematic in one's habits. Now,
don't go fancying that there was anything more in it than there really
was. We were friends simply, nothing else. But a friend means something
to me; and I mean to receive this young man into my house, and show him
every attention in my power. And you tell me that you have met him in
New York, and like him very much? I am not a match-maker, Virginia, like
your Aunt Helen; but it would doubtless be very agreeable to both the
families if you young people should happen to take a fancy to each
other. Stranger things have occurred; and since it is evident to me from
an intimate knowledge of your character that you are sure to marry some
day, I know of no one whom it would please me so much to intrust your
future happiness to, as the son of my old friend. His presumptive rank
would probably weigh for more with you than with me. Provided the young
man has high principles and a steadfast purpose, I shall be content."

I laughed gently in reply. I had made up my mind not to thwart the old
lady openly. It would be time enough for that later, if the Honorable
Britain ever should come to the point. It was such a novel coincidence
that my aunts should agree for once on anything, that the thought of
putting myself in antagonism with them did not occur to me seriously for
a moment. I felt the humor of the situation, and was also filled at once
with the desire to harmonize them forever by means of this common
interest.

"We will see, Aunt Agnes, what he thinks of me," I said; and all through
my visit of two days I dropped hints of the efforts Aunt Helen had made
in New York to prejudice Mr. Ferroll in my favor.

"She has spoiled all, I dare say, by showing her hand too openly,"
bristled Aunt Agnes, the first time I mentioned the subject.

"In that case, you will have to let